Protein intake guidelines and the value of popular sources
This is an editorial summary of research originally reported by Google Health News. ProductSafer does not claim ownership of the underlying research. All intellectual property belongs to the original publishers.
Most people get enough protein from regular food, so you likely don't need expensive supplements or powdered products. Processed protein products like protein bars offer little nutritional value beyond the protein itself, according to one dietitian. Experts recommend getting protein from a variety of whole foods instead.
Most people already get enough protein from the food they eat every day. You don't need to buy expensive supplements or protein powders to meet your body's needs.
Processed foods marketed as high-protein options, such as protein bars, provide little beyond the protein itself, one dietitian said. Whole foods may offer more overall nutrition. Experts say whole foods such as lentils provide other nutrients that protein bars do not.
Getting protein from whole foods gives you better nutrition without the hidden additives. Lean meats, eggs, beans, dairy products, and nuts all provide quality protein naturally. Varying your protein sources helps you get other important nutrients at the same time.
Check the nutrition labels on any protein products before buying them. Compare the sodium and sugar content against whole food alternatives. If you're meeting your protein needs through regular meals, skip the supplements and powders. If you do use them, pick products with short ingredient lists and minimal added sodium and sugar.
What you can doAI-generated
- ✓Switch from protein powders to whole foods like eggs, beans, chicken, and Greek yogurt. You're already getting enough protein from regular meals.
- ✓Read the nutrition label on any protein supplement before you buy it. Look specifically at the sodium and added sugar numbers and compare them to what you'd get from eating chicken or beans instead.
- ✓Cut back on processed "high-protein" foods and drinks marketed as health products. These often sneak in sodium and added sugars that undermine your actual health goals.
- ✓Limit protein supplements to occasional use only if you genuinely can't eat enough whole food protein. Pick products with short ingredient lists and less than 200 milligrams of sodium per serving.
Always consult a healthcare professional for personal medical advice.
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